When comparing Sony MDR XB50AP vs Anker Soundbuds NB10, the Slant community recommends Anker Soundbuds NB10 for most people. In the question“What are the best in-ear headphones with microphone under $50?”Anker Soundbuds NB10 is ranked 2nd while Sony MDR XB50AP is ranked 4th. The most important reason people chose Anker Soundbuds NB10 is:

Not only do these have an IPX5 rating for splash/sweat resistance, but there also is a nano-coating applied to the interior parts. The chances of liquids causing damage to these are substantially minimized.

Pros

Pro

Great low end complemented by clear mids and fairly good highs

The low frequencies are what stand out from the sound signature. Bass goes pretty low and with good punch too. Also, the full deep end bass is achieved without muddying up the mids. The mids are smooth and clear, allowing vocals and guitars to be clearly heard. The highs are present, though slightly recessed, giving these headphones an overall warm sound.

Pro

Cable does not tangle easily

The XB50AP's cable is flat and fairly thick, yet flexible. The cable does not tangle easily even when chucked into a bag or pocket.

Pro

Light weight and soft ear tips make these comfortable to wear

The XB50AP is fairly lightweight. Combined with the high quality ear tips that are soft and flexible, there is not much pressure in the ear canal, making them great for wearing for straight periods of time.

Pro

In line remote allows for convenient smart device control

There is a single button remote control which allows you to answer/end calls as well as pause/play tracks. This minimizes the need for you to pull out your phone or media player to do these functions.

Pro

Great for working out/running

Not only do these have an IPX5 rating for splash/sweat resistance, but there also is a nano-coating applied to the interior parts. The chances of liquids causing damage to these are substantially minimized.

Pro

Filters out noise frequencies

These have active noise cancelling which helps minimize outside noise frequencies that may mix with your music

Pro

Very snug fit

The Anker NB10 earbuds have plastic hooks that go behind the ear. These help maintain a snug fit and prevent the earbuds from accidentally falling out of the ears.

Pro

There are playback controls on the earbuds

The playback controls are placed on the earbuds, making it easy to switch tracks and change the volume without having to take out your phone or portable music player.

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Cons

Con

Earpieces are quite bulky

The earpieces are quite big and stick out of the ears a bit. It is possible that you will find these to be straining on your ears. Also, these can hurt when you are lying down on your side with these on.

Con

Microphonics can be distracting

It produces noise when the cable moves around while you're wearing them or when it rubs against your clothes. This can be quite distracting, especially if you like to focus on your music.

Con

Treble can sound recessed

While the bass in these headphones is powerful and full, the treble has taken a bit of a step back. While there is a good level of clarity on the high frequencies, these do not have the airiness and sparkle that more detail oriented headphones have.

Con

Below average sound

Bass is not very powerful, mids are recessed and highs can get harsh. These work okay for casual listening, though if you want detailed sounding or powerful audio then these may not perform well.

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